The SAT accepts referrals from any FSU community member who is concerned about the health or safety of a Framingham State University student. Once the concern is reported, the SAT will review the information and take appropriate action. This may include contacting the person making the referral, the referred student, or any others identified that may have relevant information.

SAT’s Mission

The mission of the Framingham State University Student Assistance Team is to identify and respond to students of concern in a coordinated manner in order to promote student safety, success, and community well-being. Specifically, the team provides a mechanism for various community stakeholders (e.g., faculty, staff, students) to share information and refer students who are identified as in need of additional support in conjunction with what is offered by existing offices in academic and/or co-curricular aspects of student life. The goal of the team is to arrange for such support through a process of assessment, collaboration, assistance, ongoing monitoring, and appropriate communication with the referral source.

The SAT does not replace existing student conduct processes, classroom management, public safety responses, or other programs or services. SAT is not an emergency response team. Any emergency incident should be referred immediately to University Police at 508-626-4911.

What does the SAT do?

Provides consultation and support to members of the University Community who are aware of and report students of concern.

Responds to reports made of students in distress; gathers information to assess situations involving students of concern; engages reported students in a process to assist and/or adjust any concerning behaviors.

Recommends appropriate intervention(s).

Connects University community members with available campus and community resources.

Monitors ongoing distress or behaviors of students of concern.

Communicates appropriately with referral sources for follow up on reported issues.

Student Assistance Team Membership Core Team:

LaDonna Bridges, Chair, Associate Dean of Academic Success

Paul Welch, Director of the Counseling Center

Susan Dargan, Dean of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Charles Sachs, Assistant Professor, Psychology

Michelle Yestrepsky, Coordinator of Student Services, Dean of Students Office

Karen Nicholas, University Police

John Hurley, Resident Director, Residence Life

Jay Hurtubise, Director of Community Standards

When to be concerned

As a faculty or staff member who may have regular contact with students, you are in a good position to recognize when a student is in distress. A student's behavior, especially if it is inconsistent with your previous observations, could be a sign that the student is struggling and needs help.

Signs suggesting a student may be in distress

Academic:

Not attending classes

Increased dependence on a faculty/staff member (e.g., making numerous appointments, hanging around your office or after class)

Excessive procrastination

Uncharacteristically poor school work

Inconsistent school work

Repeated requests for special consideration

Repeated confiding in faculty/staff about personal problems

Worrisome or unusually personal content presented verbally or in written assignments